Why L.A. Kings' Jonathan Quick Should Be a Vezina Favorite

The L.A. Kings have had a great end of season push, which has put them in the playoffs and into contention for the lead in their division. Jonathan Quick has been the anchor for the team all season, and has shown that he is a front runner for this season's Vezina trophy.

The Kings have struggled to score goals all season, and have depended on solid defense to keep the team from falling in the standings. Quick has been the main reason the team has been able to maintain a 2.07 goals against average, which is the second lowest in the league.

Almost every goaltender can have success when they are playing with a large lead, but Quick has not had that luxury. The L.A. Kings have a goals for average of 2.26, which is the second lowest in the NHL.

Because the team scores so few goals, it is very important that Quick is on his game every night.

The NHL has the large majority of its teams on the east coast, so most of the fans don’t get the chance to see the Kings play.

Quick has been as good as any goaltender in the NHL this season, and is very deserving of Vezina consideration. Quick is top five in goals against average and save percentage and has been responsible for winning his fair share of games with eight shutouts, tying him for the league lead.

Quick and the Kings play in the highly competitive Western Conference, and it is very possible for the team to miss the playoffs.

If the Kings do fail to make the playoffs, Quick’s chances to win the Vezina will all but vanish.

Jonathan Quick is most likely the next great American goaltender behind Ryan Miller, so NHL fans will be seeing Quick for many years to come. It is anyone’s guess as to who will win the Vezina this season, but it is certain that all voters must consider Quick.